Godspell Brings Standing Ovation
Performed by the New River Theatre Guild at the June Bug Center, the two-weekend show run of Godspell concluded to a standing ovation on Easter Eve.
Based on the 2011 Broadway revival of the 1971 off-Broadway production, the local performance of the musical, directed by Justin Linville, was an upbeat rendition with a comical modern twist that included smart phones and a beat box song performance.
Liam Fentress played the role of Jesus and was supported by 10 fellow actors who played various roles, everything from sheep and goats to devils and angels, but mostly they portrayed the followers of Jesus who were learning his teachings.
The actors performed dramatized skits of several well-known parables.
They belted out rocking dance songs and performed uplifting folk ballads, including the radio hit Day by Day.
The serious nature of the story told was tempered with comedic flair that brought laughter from the audience.
The final days of Jesus were movingly portrayed and showed that his messages of tolerance and love prevailed.
Note- Steel Magnolias is next up for the New River Theatre Guild. Check their webpage and Facebook page for audition dates.
April 1st, 2024 5:33 pm
Looks like a great production. I would totally Love seeing that! When is Steel Magnolia ? That aught to be great as well! What a tear jerky that was! Especially the end – Sally Field’s acting was so moving !
April 2nd, 2024 9:32 am
Steel Magnolias probably sometime in May. Auditions in April. I’m grateful to have such talented local theater in our small town.
January 28th, 2025 11:09 am
Love this – Day by Day is one of my favorites too!